A procedure for procurement of two new linear accelerators for hospitals in Stip and Bitola will be launched in early 2012. The procurement and construction of special bunkers in which they will be placed should end by 2013. The new accelerators are expected to solve problems with waiting lists and appointments.

This was announced Sunday by Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski answering journalist questions after putting into use the Zelenikovo-Novo Selo motorway.

"The idea is the two linear accelerators to cover larger areas - Stip being the center of eastern Europe and Bitola as center of southwestern Macedonia. They will help cancer patients to receive better hospital treatment. Surveys have suggested that one accelerator should serve 500.000 inhabitants, thus these two and the existing two accelerators should meet the needs of Macedonian citizens," Gruevski said.

He stated that the procurement procedure and construction works were expected to end in 2013. "A great problem will be solved for the benefit of our citizens and their health," the PM concluded.